An artificial intelligence (AI) technology which will support future autonomous driving features is in development following an agreement between DENSO and Toshiba corporations.

The technology, called Deep Neural Network (DNN), will be used in image recognition systems independently developed by the two companies to support the steady introduction of advanced driver assistance and autonomous driving technologies.

DNN is an algorithm modelled after the organic map of the human brain, aiming to mimic the processing capabilities of a person, although the joint venture between the companies is hoping the technology will be able to perform image recognition processing to an even higher level.

The shift towards automated driving means automotive computers need to be able to comprehensively identify different road traffic situations, obstacles and road markings. However, in conventional image recognition using patterns and machine learning, objects must be individual characterised and extracted. In DNN-based image recognition, a computer can extract and learn the characteristics of objects on its own, significantly improving the accuracy of detection and identification of a wide range of objects.

DNN technology has progressed rapidly over recent years, and it will be refined and implemented into smaller in-vehicle processors to provide additional support for automated driving systems.